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March 2, 2023 By David Tomen 66 Comments

Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10)

Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10)
Coenzyme Q10 helps in the synthesis of ATP within mitochondria in your brain cells. Boosting energy, cognition, memory and recall.

Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10) (2,3-dimethoxy-5-methyl-6-decaprenyl-1,4-benzoquinone) is a natural antioxidant synthesized by your body. It’s also known as “ubiquinone” because it is ‘ubiquitous’ in the human body. CoQ10 is used by every single cell.

CoQ10 is required for the energy production that takes place in your mitochondria . It takes fat and other substances and converts them into usable energy.

Brain cells have a higher concentration of mitochondria than most other cells in your body. These mitochondria are like little power plants inside each cell. They even have their own DNA.

The source of life and death for neurons lies in mitochondria. Without healthy mitochondria, the natural function of each cell is damaged. And the life of that cell can come to a premature end.

CoQ10 is also a powerful antioxidant. And helps protect your cells from free radical (oxidative) damage. Free radicals are oxygen atoms missing electrons. This makes them highly reactive which wreaks havoc in your tissues and DNA.

Research shows CoQ10 prevents oxidative damage in your brain. Protecting the health of your brain cells.[i]

Coenzyme Q10 helps:

  • Protect brain cells. Mitochondria generate the neuron’s energy and control its death. CoQ10 protects mitochondria from oxidative damage and dysfunction.
  • Brain energy. CoQ10 assists with ATP fuel production in mitochondria. Low levels of CoQ10 results in brain fog, slow mental processing, and cognitive decline.
  • Neurotransmitters. Brain nerve cells (neurons) provide electrical signals transmitting information between neurons. This neural signaling is involved in memory, learning, cognition and recall. CoQ10 contributes to the energy production in mitochondria in each of these neurons. Keeping them functioning optimally for normal brain processing.

Table of Contents

  • Overview
  • CoQ10: Ubiquinone vs. Ubiquinol: What’s the Difference?
  • How does CoQ10 work in the brain?
  • How things go bad
  • CoQ10 benefits
  • How does CoQ10 feel?
  • CoQ10 Clinical Research
    • CoQ10 can Improve Learning
    • CoQ10 for Parkinson’s Disease
    • CoQ10 Reverses Gulf War Illness
  • CoQ10 Recommended Dosage
  • CoQ10 Side Effects
  • Type of CoQ10 to Buy
  • Nootropics Expert Recommendation

Overview

Coenzyme-Q10
Coenzyme Q10

Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10) is a natural enzyme synthesized in your body. It’s also known as “ubiquinone” because it is ‘ubiquitous’ in the human body. CoQ10 is used by every single cell.

Your body uses CoQ10 faster than it can produce it. So you need supplemental CoQ10 either from food or a supplement. You can get CoQ10 from eating fatty fish, beef, poultry, nuts, seeds and oils.

CoQ10 assists with ATP production that take place within mitochondria in each of your brain cells. Mitochondria are the tiny power plants that are the most fundamental source of cellular energy production. And your brain has a higher concentration of mitochondria in each cell than most other organs.

CoQ10 is also a powerful antioxidant. It protects your cells from free radical damage. Oxidative damage has been implicated in several neurodegenerative diseases including Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s, Huntington’s, and Lou Gehrig (ALS) disease.[ii]

Coenzyme Q10 is used throughout your body. It helps produce more energy for your cells, boosts heart health, helps maintain healthy blood pressure and immune system, and reduces the signs of aging.

Here we’re talking about how CoQ10 affects your brain health and chemistry.

CoQ10 energizes the brain

CoQ10: Ubiquinone vs. Ubiquinol: What’s the Difference?

Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10) is a fat-soluble nutrient produced naturally in your body. The highest concentration of CoQ10 is in the organs that require the most energy – including your heart, liver, muscles, kidneys and brain.

CoQ10 is in the mitochondria in your cells. This is where cellular energy occurs. It acts as an electron acceptor or donor in the chain of reactions that lead to cellular energy production.

When oxidized CoQ10 (ubiquinone) accepts an electron from another molecule in the chain, it becomes Ubiquinol. And when Ubiquinol donates an electron it becomes ubiquinone. This state of equilibrium is necessary and how your body benefits from CoQ10.

The chemical difference between ubiquinone and Ubiquinol is the Ubiquinol compound contains two hydroxyl groups. This makes it more “hydrophilic”, or easier to dissolve in water. And makes it more bioavailable than ubiquinone.[iii]ubiquinol is water-soluble

In Ubiquinol-form, CoQ10 has the ability to scavenge free radicals in the mitochondria and cell membranes. Sites where free radicals inflict the most damage.

Supplement makers have been offering various forms of CoQ10 claiming to enhance bioavailability. But absorption rates vary a lot from person to person. With some people only absorbing and utilizing extremely small amounts of CoQ10.

One company, BioActives has developed a new delivery mechanism for CoQ10 using a natural compound (beta-cyclodextrin) made from potato starch. MicroActive® Q10 is a free-flowing powder with enhanced bioavailability.

Research shows that daily use of MicroActive® Q10 doubles serum (blood) levels of CoQ10 in just 3 weeks.

You can get MicroActive Q10 in the new Performance Lab® Energy formula that also contains Acetyl-L-Carnitine, R-Lipoic Acid, PQQ and BioPerine for even better bioavailability.

How does CoQ10 work in the brain?

Coenzyme Q10 boosts brain health in several ways. But two in particular stand out.

  1. When you supplement with enough CoQ10, you’re giving your brain cells the fuel it needs to produce adenosine triphosphate (ATP). ATP is the fuel produced by the mitochondria in your neurons.

Mitochondria are the source of life and death for neurons. They generate your neuron’s energy and control its death. But mitochondria tend to develop defects as we age.

As these defects accumulate, mitochondria start to malfunction. This results in a reduction in cellular energy production. And cells die.

The result of this dysfunction can be brain fog, cognition problems, poor memory and recall. And ultimately neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer’s, Huntington’s, stroke and others.[iv]

Studies show that CoQ10 protects against this cellular damage by raising energy levels. In a study with rats, scientists put CoQ10 in their chow for 10 days before giving them a toxin that caused brain lesions. CoQ10 reduced lesions by 30%. And restored energy production in neurons to nearly normal levels.[v]

  1. CoQ10 preserves brain function, mental illness and fights migraines. CoQ10 is essential not only in preventing brain deterioration at a structural level, but in maintaining normal function at all ages.

Studies are beginning to show some troubling associations between migraine headaches and mental health issues like depression and schizophrenia.

CoQ10 relieves migraine headachesScientists don’t know for sure what causes migraines. But think it may be related to brain energy levels. Studies show that CoQ10 supplementation in children, adolescents and adults had significant decreases in frequency and length of migraines.[vi]

Major depression, bipolar disorder and schizophrenia have long been considered separate health issues. Lately, they are being recognized as having mitochondrial dysfunction in common. And higher oxidative stress levels.[vii]

Just one of many studies show that depression in older bipolar adults had a significant reduction in symptoms. This was after treatment with 1,200 mg of CoQ10 per day.[viii]

How things go bad

As we get older, the chemistry in our brain cells and energy metabolism changes.

↓ Brain cell membranes degenerate

↓ Recall, reaction time and mood diminish

↓ Neurotransmitter levels decline

All of these age-related changes are contributing factors to the neurodegenerative diseases of aging, including Alzheimer’s and dementia.

But even if things haven’t degenerated to such a debilitating level, CoQ10 can help.

CoQ10 benefits

Research from thousands of studies have shown that Coenzyme Q10 will:

  • Boost energy levels and stamina
  • Reduce fatigueCoQ10 to the rescue
  • Reduce the possibility of age-related diseases
  • Lower blood pressure
  • Lower blood sugar levels
  • Provide protection and energy to your brain
  • Boost cerebral blood flow

How does CoQ10 feel?

Optimizing your mitochondria is one the most powerful strategies you have to extend your life. Mitochondrial dysfunction is associated with the aging process, including many age-related diseases.

So when taking CoQ10 you should feel better and more energized. Thinking should be clearer. Less fatigue and stamina improved.

Some neurohackers report feeling more fatigue while taking Ubiquinol. And actually feel better taking the less optimized form ubiquinone.

CoQ10 Clinical Research

CoQ10 was first isolated from beef hearts at the University of Wisconsin in 1957. Research continued at Merck & Company, Stanford Research Institute, and the University of Texas at Austin. Many studies from around the world have been published since.[ix]

CoQ10 can Improve Learning

A study at the University of Texas was conducted to find out if supplementing with CoQ10 or Vitamin E could help older mice learn tasks more quickly. The researchers separated groups of older mice. And gave each mouse either CoQ10, Vitamin E, or both antioxidants for 14 weeks.

The mice were run through a battery of tests assessing learning, memory and psychomotor function.  The study concluded that CoQ10 combined with Vitamin E working in concert boosted performance in all tests.[x]

CoQ10 for Parkinson’s Disease

Neuron death caused by oxidative stress is implicated in a host of neurodegenerative diseases. Including Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s and stroke.

Oxidative stress is an imbalance between the production of free radicals, and the ability of your body to detoxify the harm caused by free radicals. Exposure to toxins in your everyday environment can cause oxidative stress.

Researchers at the University of California, San Diego set out to determine if supplementing with CoQ10 could slow the progression of Parkinson’s Disease.

80 patients with Parkinson’s Disease were assigned CoQ10 dosages of 300, 600, or 1200 mg daily. The patients underwent evaluation with the Unified Parkinson Disease Rating Scale (UPDRS) at the screening, baseline, and 1-, 4-, 8-, 12-, and 16-month visits.

The research team concluded, “ Coenzyme Q10 was safe and well tolerated at dosages of up to 1200 mg/d. Less disability developed in subjects assigned to coenzyme Q10 than in those assigned to placebo, and the benefit was greatest in subjects receiving the highest dosage. Coenzyme Q10 appears to slow the progressive deterioration of function in Parkinson’s Disease”.[xi]

CoQ10 Reverses Gulf War Illness

The profound protective effect of CoQ10 on brain neurons and memory was proven in studies with soldiers who fought in the Persian Gulf War.

About one-third of the 700,000 troops deployed during the first Persian Gulf War, have been diagnosed with Gulf War Illness (GWI). Symptoms include fatigue, muscle pain, weakness, and decreased cognitive function.

CoQ10 relieves Gulf War IllnessGulf War Illness was caused by exposure to pesticides, sarin nerve gas, and other toxins during the war.

Forty-six United States Gulf War veterans participated in this randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study. All had been diagnosed with GWI.

The veterans were given CoQ10 in pill form, or a placebo for 3 ½ months. Researchers concluded that 80% of those receiving only 100 mg of CoQ10 during this study saw improvements with headaches, irritability, recall and muscle pain.

The degree of improvement correlated to the degree in which CoQ10 levels in the blood increased.[xii]

CoQ10 Recommended Dosage

CoQ10 can help the synthesis of ATP within mitochondria in your brain, and throughout your body. It reduces oxidative stress and damage to mitochondria. Helping to slow the aging process.

Dosing CoQ10 depends on what you’re trying to accomplish. Generally dosing for a healthy adult is 30 – 400 mg daily.

  • As an antioxidant: 60 – 150 mg daily
  • Muscle control problems: 300 – 3,000 mg daily
  • Alzheimer’s Disease: 400 mg daily
  • Heart Attack recovery: 30 – 600 mg daily
  • To prevent heart disease: 200 mg daily
  • Chemotherapy side effects: 50 – 90 mg daily
  • Improve exercise performance: 50 – 300 mg daily
  • Male infertility and Peyronie’s disease: 30 – 300 mg daily
  • Diabetic nerve pain: 400 mg daily
  • Weight loss: 100 mg daily
  • Parkinson’s Disease 1,200 mg daily

Note: recommended dosing is for as long as you have symptoms. Work with your doctor and get tested for CoQ10 levels in your blood. Once your CoQ10 level are optimized you can scale back to a maintenance dose.

CoQ10 Side Effects

The primary “side effect” of using CoQ10 in your nootropic stack is – you’ll feel better. You should have more energy and thinking should be clearer and faster.

CoQ10 may reduce the toxic effect of some chemotherapy drugs. And it may enhance the effectiveness of some blood pressure medications. Which can be good or bad depending on your situation.

CoQ10 can reduce the efficacy of a blood thinner like Warfarin. It can also lower blood sugar levels. So needs to be monitored if you have diabetes.

Caution is advised when using CoQ10 with aspirin. Especially if you have a bleeding disorder.

Talk to your doctor if you’re on any medication before you start using CoQ10.

A few people who use CoQ10 report rashes, nausea, abdominal pain, dizziness, sensitivity to light, irritability, headache, heartburn or fatigue.

Some neurohackers say they feel fatigue when using Ubiquinol but not with the less expensive Ubiquinone. Experiment and see what works best for you.

Type of CoQ10 to Buy

There are two types of CoQ10 used in CoQ10 supplements: ubiquinone and Ubiquinol. Some alternative health practitioners advise staying away from ubiquinone because your body has to convert it to Ubiquinol to use it.

If you’re under 25 and in good health you can likely get the benefit of CoQ10 with the less expensive ubiquinone. Over 25 and you’re better off with Ubiquinol.

Ubiquinol is identical to 95% of the CoQ10 your body is designed to naturally produce. Which means your body doesn’t have to convert the CoQ10 to use it.

BioActives® LLC has developed a new delivery mechanism for CoQ10 using a natural compound (beta-cyclodextrin) made from potato starch. MicroActive® Q10 is a free-flowing powder with enhanced bioavailability.

In 2011, a study published in the Journal of Evidence-Based Integrative Medicine showed that daily use of MicroActive® Q10 doubles serum (blood) levels of CoQ10 in just 3 weeks.

You can get MicroActive Q10 in the new Performance Lab® Energy formula that also contains Acetyl-L-Carnitine, R-Lipoic Acid, PQQ and BioPerine for even better bioavailability.

Nootropics Expert Recommendation

Coenzyme Q10 200 – 400 mg per pay

Nootropics Expert Tested and ApprovedI recommend using CoQ10 as a nootropic supplement.

Your body does make some CoQ10 on its own. And from the food you eat. But studies have shown we don’t get an adequate supply of CoQ10 from food sources in our diet.

CoQ10 is especially helpful for those suffering from age-related cognitive decline. Studies show it helps stop or reverse brain degeneration with Alzheimer’s Disease, and slow the progression of Parkinson’s Disease. Especially in the early stage of the disease.

CoQ10 is particularly effective for boosting energy levels in those with low levels of CoQ10.

I now get my CoQ10 from the new Performance Lab® Energy formula that contains MicroActive® Q10, Acetyl-l-Carnitine (ALCAR), BioPQQ® and BioPerine®.

We suggest starting with a dose of 200 mg daily. And CoQ10 is a great compliment to a stack including any nootropic.

You need to provide your brain mitochondria with the ingredients needed for ATP production. ATP is your source of cellular energy. Or neurons start to break down from the inside. Signs that your lacking adequate CoQ10 is brain fog, slow thinking, headaches and muscle aches.

Age-related cognitive disorders that include muscle control problems may want to up the dose to 3,000 mg per day. But for a limited time until CoQ10 blood levels are stabilized. Work with your doctor.

REFERENCES

[i] Wadsworth T.L., Bishop J.A., Pappu A.S., Woltjer R.L., Quinn JF. “Evaluation of coenzyme Q as an antioxidant strategy for Alzheimer’s disease.” Journal of Alzheimer’s Disease. 2008 Jun;14(2):225-34. (source)

[ii] Kidd P.M. “Neurodegeneration from mitochondrial insufficiency: nutrients, stem cells, growth factors, and prospects for brain rebuilding using integrative management.” Alternative Medicine Review 2005 Dec;10(4):268-93. (source)

[iii] Failla M.L., Chitchumroonchokchai C., Aoki F. “Increased bioavailability of ubiquinol compared to that of ubiquinone is due to more efficient micellarization during digestion and greater GSH-dependent uptake and basolateral secretion by Caco-2 cells.” Journal of Agricultural Food Chemistry 2014 Jul 23;62(29):7174-82 (source)

[iv] Spindler M., Beal M.F., Henchcliffe C. “Coenzyme Q10 effects in neurodegenerative disease” Neuropsychiatry Disease Treatment 2009; 5: 597–610. (source)

[v] Beal M.F., Henshaw D.R., Jenkins B.G., Rosen B.R., Schulz J.B. “Coenzyme Q10 and nicotinamide block striatal lesions produced by the mitochondrial toxin malonate.” Annals of Neurology 1994 Dec;36(6):882-8. (source)

[vi] Hershey A.D., Powers S.W., Vockell A.L., Lecates S.L., Ellinor P.L., Segers A., Burdine D., Manning P., Kabbouche M.A. “Coenzyme Q10 deficiency and response to supplementation in pediatric and adolescent migraine.” Headache 2007 Jan;47(1):73-80. (source)

[vii] Maes M., Galecki P., Chang Y.S., Berk M. “ A review on the oxidative and nitrosative stress (O&NS) pathways in major depression and their possible contribution to the (neuro)degenerative processes in that illness.” Progress in Neuropsychopharmacology and Biological Psychiatry. 2011 Apr 29;35(3):676-92. (source)

[viii] Forester B.P., Zuo C.S., Ravichandran C., Harper D.G., Du F., Kim S., Cohen B.M., Renshaw P.F. “Coenzyme Q10 effects on creatine kinase activity and mood in geriatric bipolar depression.” Journal of Geriatric Psychiatry and Neurology. 2012 Mar;25(1):43-50. (source)

[ix] Saini R. “Coenzyme Q10: The essential nutrient” Journal of Pharmacy and Bioallied Sciences. 2011 Jul-Sep; 3(3): 466–467. (source)

[x] McDonald S.R., Sohal R.S., Forster M.J. “Concurrent administration of coenzyme Q10 and alpha-tocopherol improves learning in aged mice.” Free Radical Biology and Medicine. 2005 Mar 15;38(6):729-36. (source)

[xi] Shults, C. W., Oakes, D., Kieburtz, K., Beal, M. F., Haas, R., Plumb, S., Juncos, J. L., Nutt, J., Shoulson, I., Carter, J., Kompoliti, K., Perlmutter, J. S., Reich, S., Stern, M., Watts, R. L., Kurlan, R., Molho, E., Harrison, M., Lew, M., & Parkinson Study Group (2002). "Effects of coenzyme Q10 in early Parkinson disease: evidence of slowing of the functional decline." Archives of neurology, 59(10), 1541–1550. (source)

[xii] Golomb B.A., Allison M., Koperski S., Koslik H.J., Devaraj S., Ritchie J.B. “Coenzyme Q10 benefits symptoms in Gulf War veterans: results of a randomized double-blind study.” Neural Computation. 2014 Nov;26(11):2594-651. (source)

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About David Tomen

David has been researching nootropics and brain optimization for over 10 years. When he's not writing about nootropics, he's travelling the world (45 countries so far), sailing, diving, studying neuroscience or sitting under an umbrella on Miami Beach. More...

Comments

  1. Benjamin says

    September 8, 2021 at 10:32 am

    I ordered this one however it contains Shilajit. no idea what that is?
    did not realize until I placed the order

    MicroActive CoQ10 Enhanced with MicroPQQ + Shilajit

    Reply
    • David Tomen says

      September 8, 2021 at 5:42 pm

      This is what Shilajit is: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/labs/pmc/articles/PMC3296184/

      Reply
  2. Benjamin says

    September 8, 2021 at 7:49 am

    Do we get enough C0Q10 from chicken breast or red meat or fish, I have these meats about 6 nights a week, would Q10 be good for brain fog. would i benefit from taking say 500mg per day

    cheers

    Reply
    • David Tomen says

      September 8, 2021 at 5:33 pm

      Benjamin, it is unlikely that you’ll get enough CoQ10 from food. Esp. if you need 500 mg CoQ10 per day. There is no good way to measure how much you are getting from food.

      Would be good for brain fog? That depends on if your brain fog is caused by oxidative stress or inflammation. But if your brain fog is caused by hormone imbalances, lack of quality sleep, nutrient deficiencies, or low BDNF then no amount of CoQ10 will help.

      Reply
  3. Thomas says

    August 24, 2021 at 10:19 pm

    Im 28 and had a TBI and it makes my energy and already bad ADHD worse. Sleep is very hard as well. I read a study this year that there were moderate to high benefits for specifically taking COQ10 and creatine. Why is that in gist? What other studies do you know of off cuff? And what’s the biggest difference between mono and hydrochloride creatine? Thanks for all your other comment responses that helped me a lot.

    Reply
    • David Tomen says

      August 26, 2021 at 6:33 pm

      Thomas, I think you’ll get all the information about TBI that you need including which supplements work best right here: https://nootropicsexpert.com/best-nootropics-for-traumatic-brain-injury/

      Reply
  4. anthony says

    April 21, 2021 at 6:04 am

    Hi David

    I want start taking Coenzyme Q10 at the lowest dose but i suffer from sever anxiety anbd severe nervousness.

    Will Coenzyme Q10 cause jitterness? Can it help for anxiety and Nervousness as i read that Coenzyme Q10 exhibits potent anti-glutamate properties. So it should calm down the excitatory neurotransmitter right or not?

    Thanks

    Reply
    • David Tomen says

      April 22, 2021 at 4:58 pm

      Anthony, if excess glutamate is the cause of your anxiety then CoQ10 may help. But there are many other causes of anxiety. This article can help you figure out what it is: https://nootropicsexpert.com/best-nootropics-for-anxiety/

      Reply
      • anthony says

        April 24, 2021 at 8:52 am

        Thanks David

        Will check it out but also want to try CoQ10. Do you know if 150mg will give jitters?

        Thanks again

        Reply
        • David Tomen says

          April 24, 2021 at 3:56 pm

          Anthony, only you can know the answer by trying it. If you take it once and you get the jitters then you know it’s not for you. But I can’t predict if that will happen or it won’t happen.

          Reply
  5. Jesse says

    March 10, 2021 at 8:01 am

    Would it be safe to take say 300MG of COQ10 per day even if you feel you get enough from your diet? I’m in my 30s

    Just to keep optimal blood levels of it, is there any harm in doing so?

    Also, can I take it along with DHA-1000MG
    and Curcumin 400MG – BCM-95
    and Lemon Balm 500MG before Bed
    without any issue?

    Also, does a high sugar diet that I am trying to change slowly affect the mitochondria in the brain?

    Thank you

    Reply
    • David Tomen says

      March 11, 2021 at 2:37 pm

      Jesse, 300 mg CoQ10 is within the recommended dosage range. So is safe.

      But one thing that is not safe is excess sugar in your diet. Your mitochondria do use glucose to produce ATP for energy. But the excess sugar causes inflammation which is not good.

      Reply
  6. Jason says

    December 13, 2020 at 6:01 am

    Hello David

    Im taking creatine atm for energy, would I still benefit from taking coq10? I suppose creatine and coq10 works the same right?

    Reply
    • David Tomen says

      December 14, 2020 at 2:00 pm

      Jason, both Creatine and CoQ10 are involved in ATP production in mitochondria. But are very different.

      CoQ10 is involved in the production ATP within mitochondria. Creatine on the other hand helps recycle depleted (used) ATP. It does this by adding a phosphate molecule to adenosine diphosphate (ADP) which in turn makes fresh ATP.

      Your energy levels will benefit from using both of these nootropics.

      Reply
  7. Michael Cleary says

    November 30, 2020 at 4:13 pm

    Hello David,
    Hark back two years: Using CoEnzyme Q10 plus Salvestrol Platinum 2000 plus Vtamin D3 and using Vitamin B7 (biotin), B3 niacin nf for bioavailability along with selenium, zinc in our diet, forms or shall I say activates our sleepy klotho protein array.
    For 35-58 year old plus (I’m 84 today) is sorts out chronic inflammation, neuro degenerative conditions as well as interrupting cancer progression wrecking the unwanted mitosis chromosomes dividing.

    All of this ensures longevity and keeps our cognition up to scratch.

    Did you follow up the 3518 scientific papers on Klotho ?

    It’ll put Nootropics well up the scale of “must do”

    Kind regards
    Michael

    Reply
    • David Tomen says

      December 2, 2020 at 11:08 am

      Michael, I’m sure I’ve come across scientific papers from Klotho during my research. Thank you for sharing!

      Reply
  8. Brian L says

    November 30, 2020 at 7:52 am

    Hi David,

    Can you take both CoQ10 and NADH?

    Also, what do you think of MitoQ.

    Cheers

    Brian L

    Reply
    • David Tomen says

      November 30, 2020 at 11:34 am

      Brain, both CoC10 and NADH are involved in the production of adenosine triphosphate (ATP) in your mitochondria. And in fact, they have been test together successfully for treating Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4346380/).

      MitoQ is just a patented version of ubiquinol and does seem to have some science supporting its efficacy.

      Reply
  9. Serge says

    October 15, 2020 at 10:23 am

    Hello David
    Can Q10 lower prolactin levels?
    Thanks

    Reply
    • David Tomen says

      October 16, 2020 at 11:22 am

      Serge, yes CoQ10 seems to reduce prolactin levels (https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4910857/). But how much in humans I’m not sure.

      Reply
  10. Benjamin David Steele says

    September 28, 2020 at 7:09 pm

    I use MitoQ. It is a specific form that was developed to cross the cell membrane. That is the problem with other forms that can be absorbed into the body, but very little makes it into the cells. MitoQ is designed to get to the mitochondria.

    I was turned onto it by a recommendation of Dr. Terry Wahls. She reversed multiple sclerosis in her self and in many patients. She has already done a clinical trial and is doing a larger study right now. One of the few supplements she recommends for mitochondrial health is MitoQ.

    The antioxidant system is interesting in general. Besides CoQ10, there is also glutathione and its precursors, such as NAC. You’ve written about NAC. But have you thought about writing more about this kind of thing? I’m specifically thinking about superoxide dismutase and catalase that are part of the same process involving glutathione.

    Reply
    • David Tomen says

      September 29, 2020 at 1:47 pm

      Benjamin, looks like MitoQ is a good option if you’re willing to pay that much for a single supplement. In some cases it’s worth it.

      Have you seen my article on supporting mitochondria here? https://nootropicsexpert.com/hack-your-mitochondria-with-nootropics/

      Reply
  11. martin says

    June 19, 2020 at 12:26 pm

    HeLLo

    I had Chronic Fatigue SYndrome 28 years ago which is similar to GWI I heard although obviously I don’t think I was subjected to sarin gas and biotoxins.
    Mine started after a viral infection, about 3 months after. Then I recovered 16 years later. Now, another 13 years I have had some tremor (electric buzzing) at night when I jump awake. My B12 is low normal 342 but I bought some co q 10 today. do you think it might help? I don’t know my blood level of Coq10 as I dont kn ow who can do this test in the UK.

    Reply
    • David Tomen says

      June 20, 2020 at 1:07 pm

      Martin, if your B12 is low why don’t you just add a Vitamin B12 (methylcobalamin) supplement? It takes awhile to build it back up.

      Reply
    • Ivan says

      May 20, 2021 at 6:46 am

      Hi Martin,

      how did your recover from CFS? What strategies did you use?

      Thanks

      I.

      Reply
  12. DAKA says

    June 13, 2020 at 5:23 am

    Hi David. According to what i read in this website, ALA, Q10, PQQ and ALCAR can have a potent sinergistic effect for energy boost. My question is, is it enough the fat that comes in the softgel in the ubiquinol and pqq enought to be absorbed even in los fat meals (i.e 3/4 grams).
    The other question is regarding the halflife of those, i mean if i take 1,5g of alcar 45 minutes later than ALA,Q10 and PQQ combo ,would i get the same sinergist effect?
    Kind regards

    Reply
    • David Tomen says

      June 13, 2020 at 5:00 pm

      Daka, you should get the same synergistic effect. But why wouldn’t you take them at the same time? And regarding fat-soluble supplements and absorption I just take my stack with a tablespoon of unrefined coconut oil or MCT Oil which solves the delivery problem.

      Reply
      • Daka says

        June 13, 2020 at 5:21 pm

        Oh, i forgot to mention that i have stomach problems and i try to minimize as much as possible water intake during meal. By the way, i found berberine and coconut oil to work insanely good for my stomach gastritis. Do you know any other supplement /herb that have positive effects?
        Best regards

        Reply
        • David Tomen says

          June 15, 2020 at 5:08 pm

          Daka, I get great results for stomach issues with Ginger capsules.

          Reply
  13. Amy Lo says

    May 31, 2020 at 12:27 am

    Hi dr Tomen,

    Can CoQ10 help alleviate Parkinson’s disease?

    Thank you

    Amy

    Reply
    • David Tomen says

      June 1, 2020 at 3:12 pm

      Amy, not that I know of.

      I suggest you do a search of Nootropics Expert using the search field top right of the top menu. And do a search for “Parkinson’s”. See what turns up.

      I know there are several nootropics beneficial to Parkinson’s Disease that I’ve reviewed.

      Reply
  14. James says

    March 9, 2020 at 11:22 pm

    I am lucky I read this article. The coq10 supplement I have does not mention anything at all about a meal. It just says take 1 daily.

    Reply
  15. Adjai says

    July 17, 2019 at 7:09 am

    Hallo David
    Q10 is also goed to treat erectile dysfonction?
    Thanks

    Reply
    • David Tomen says

      July 17, 2019 at 11:38 am

      Adjai, CoQ10 may help ED in some guys because it helps boost blood flow.

      Reply
  16. Tom says

    May 28, 2019 at 4:13 am

    First of all thank you for the information that you are putting out in the public domain which is getting people like us to being introduced to the amazing nootropics world…

    I do understand that the forms that you mentioned about COQ10 are UBIQUINOL and UBIQUINONE …. And the prefer recommendation was UBIQUINOL…

    I have by mistake bought coq10 which only has mention of ubidecarenone coenzyme q10 for my 62 yr old mother.

    I was hoping if you advise if it is conducive for her consumption or should I just order a new one with UBIQUINOL clearly mentioned on the pack…

    And lastly I am planning to make her take COQ10 and PQQ after lunch and not in the morning with saturated fats as you frequently advice, so any demerits in this approach

    Reply
    • David Tomen says

      May 28, 2019 at 3:41 pm

      Tom, your Mom should get some benefit from Ubiquinone but her body just needs to covert it to the usable form of Ubiquinol. Just keep in mind that CoQ10 is fat-soluble. So whenever she takes it you’ll need to make sure it is taken with a healthy fat. Either a meal with oil in it or something like coconut or olive oil. If not then you’re wasting your money because her body will not absorb it.

      Reply
      • Tom says

        May 29, 2019 at 12:09 pm

        I am grateful for your reply… Have ordered UBIQUINOL for her… And with regards to the dosage timings have fixed a slot of morning in empty stomach a combination of UBIQUINOL and PQQ with ghee(edible coconut oil and olive oil is something niche over here)… Would like to inform her morning supplement routine also includes taking Resveretrol, reshi mushroom ( tincture form), b complex (tincture form) and astragalus root ( powder form) all taken on empty stomach but not at the same time… I hope you don’t find problem with this routine

        Reply
        • David Tomen says

          May 30, 2019 at 1:03 pm

          Tom, sounds like you’ve been doing your research. Your ‘routine’ looks like it should provide the benefit you are looking for.

          Reply
  17. Michael Cleary says

    January 27, 2018 at 4:42 pm

    Hello, David,
    Great article. I have learned much from you.
    We eat bio-ubiquinol 100 mg + salvestrol 250 mg + Vit D3 +Vit B array.
    This makes KLOTHO in our kidney micro tubules and chorus plexis with the aim to avoid chronic inflammation and to clear out cancer cells that form when the protein enzyme CYP1B1 arrives as well as dysplasias that are lurking.

    I will welcome any comment on our battlefront I am 82 so far functioning like a 42 year old. My Wife and Daughter too are coping with their disabilities and are keeping fit. We have been doing this for sixteen years. In my opinion it has been a well worth exercise

    Kind regards. Keep up the good work at Nootropic

    Reply
    • David Tomen says

      January 27, 2018 at 5:23 pm

      Michael, one of the greatest benefits I’ve found to writing and sharing Nootropics Expert is meeting like-minded people all over the world. Your comment is proof that learning about your own body, and taking responsibility for your own health pays dividends beyond our wildest dreams.

      Thank you for sharing your experience with all of us. It’s deeply appreciated.

      Reply
  18. oren Jeansonne says

    July 6, 2017 at 5:55 pm

    Hello, I am a 2 year renal transplant patient, and want to know if taking coq10 / ubiquinol would be safe / beneficial to take ?.. Would it cause a conflict with my anti-rejection meds ? I took it for over 10 years before my transpant….and really want to contimue it. My docs are uninformed and say no !… but they can’t explain why !!!!!
    THANK YOU

    Reply
    • David Tomen says

      July 6, 2017 at 8:56 pm

      Great question and one I’m certainly not qualified to answer. This is what the University of Maryland Medical Center has to say about CoQ10 and drug interactions > http://www.umm.edu/health/medical/altmed/supplement-interaction/possible-interactions-with-coenzyme-q10

      Reply
  19. Alex says

    April 18, 2017 at 10:47 pm

    Did i read this correctly up to 3000mg daily for people with muscle control problems? and how? being that the highest single capsule dosage i’ve seen is 600mg and those are pretty expensive to boot…would the dosage be lower for ubiquinol? any solutions?

    thanks a lot and keep up the good work

    Reply
    • David Tomen says

      April 19, 2017 at 12:30 pm

      Alex, you read the right. 3000 mg daily for muscle control problems according to the Mayo Clinic here > http://www.mayoclinic.org/drugs-supplements/coenzyme-q10/dosing/hrb-20059019. I realize CoQ10 is expensive. But if you’re dealing with quality of life issues because of muscle control, I think the cost is worth it. Same goes for a lot of other diseases CoQ10 can help. And no, there is no evidence to support lower doses by using ubiquinol.

      Reply
  20. Yasmin says

    March 16, 2017 at 3:17 pm

    Hi David,

    Are they any particular brand you can suggest for CoQ10?

    Yasmin

    Reply
    • David Tomen says

      March 20, 2017 at 12:36 pm

      I personally use either Nature’s Bounty Ubiquinol or Doctor’s Best Ubiquinol.

      Reply
      • Rifat says

        May 6, 2021 at 12:45 am

        Hi David,

        Luckily, before even reading this article, I was at the pharmacy trying to pick one, and while doing some quick last-second research on my cellphone in the aisles of the pharmacy, the only Ubiquinol I found was Nature’s Bounty Ubiquinol.

        This is reassuring since the Nootropic Expert likes it too.

        Now, since the 2 carbonyl groups were converted to 2 hydroxyl groups, I still see that the molecule looks quite hydrophobic to me (I have a degree in Biomedical Science and now tutor undergrads in Organic chemistry lol).

        As such, you probably still take your Ubiquinol with fat even though it has 2 hydroxyl groups? Right?

        Reply
        • David Tomen says

          May 6, 2021 at 3:09 pm

          Rifat, I don’t consciously take it with fat. But use a tablespoon of unrefined coconut oil each time I take my supplements. So any fat-soluble ingredients in my supplements will get absorbed/digested and used. Instead of getting excrete unused.

          Reply
          • Rifat says

            May 6, 2021 at 10:50 pm

            Makes sense, you said some Neurohackers get tired with Ubiquinol, did you find it makes you tired or instead makes you more energetic?

          • David Tomen says

            May 7, 2021 at 3:03 pm

            Rifat, it hard to say how CoQ10 in any form made me feel because I use so many supplements.

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